Page 1680 - Week 05 - Wednesday, 1 April 2009
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Young people make a great and positive contribution to the life of our territory and an event such as National Youth Week brings to the fore their accomplishments and contributions. I would like to publicly thank the sponsors of the national event—the Australian Sports Commission, the Australian Federal Police, the Butterfly Foundation, the Department of Health and Ageing through their drinking nightmare campaign, and beyondblue.
I agree with the motion’s call to recognise the importance of providing opportunities for young Canberrans. Indeed, the Canberra Liberals’ youth policy for the recent election recognised the importance of investing in the development of our youth to ensure their best prospects in life can be realised. There is also a need to recognise that not all young people in Canberra have the same dreams and aspirations. Youth cannot be lumped in one category. The services we provide for students will be different from the services we provide for apprentices and young families and those going into business. Indeed, youth policy is for all walks of life and is not just about building skateboard parks. Unfortunately, too, some youth face disadvantage and will need extra support and encouragement.
I also wanted to place on the record my thanks to the adults that work in the children and youth sector. The work they do is invaluable and is often not recognised. It is not a lucrative career but a noble one.
In supporting an updated young people’s plan, I believe there are some initiatives that should be included and issues considered. First and foremost, youth are entitled, as with any other sector in our society, to be heard by government. The government needs to consult regularly, including with youth peak bodies. Late last year I joined several other members at the Youth Coalition’s yogie awards, which celebrates individuals, youth workers, organisations, projects and programs that have been outstanding in serving the young people of Canberra. I acknowledge the mover’s leading role in this organisation immediately prior to entering this place.
The Youth Advisory Council is one youth body that is particularly deserving of recognition in this place. The Youth Advisory Council ensures that issues confronting the youth of the territory are brought to the attention of the government and other members of this place. I am impressed by the enthusiasm and passion with which the Youth Advisory Council carries out its functions and I look forward to working with the council into the future.
The plan must consider the need, especially when dealing with youth issues, to ensure that, across government, communication and cooperation mechanisms are in place. So many of our vulnerable youth interact with health, education and police that it is important that the office of children and young people is working with each of these agencies. If there are youth at risk, there is a much better chance of government being able to help if each of the agencies that might come into contact with this person has all the appropriate information and resources at its disposal.
Law and order at Canberra’s nightspots is a significant issue for youth. Better transport options after dark are one of the best ways we can contribute to safety
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